Daily Times

Sir: Heavy monsoon rains returned to Lahore this year. A total of 252 mm of rain has been recorded in the city in recent days. The risk of more rain coming to Lahore as well as other cities across Punjab remains today. According to rescue services, a number of people were killed because of this rain, some because of electrocution and others because of roof collapse.

The rainfall resulted in 150 electricity feeders tripping across the city, plunging different areas into darkness. Moreover, the flow of traffic was severely affected as several roads were left completely submerged in water, especially in the low-lying areas. A warning was also given out for Lahore airport due to the weather conditions, stating that routine flight operations may be affected.

The Pakistan meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast more rain along with thundershower with gusty winds in many areas of Punjab. However, there is still a lack of preparation. Punjab’s storm drains remain incapable of dealing with the increased rainfall. This is despite the fact that every year the heavy rains leave numerous areas completely water logged.

Every year, weather reports inform about the expected dates of the rains yet the authorities never take any action. A serious change in attitude is required here.

DANISH NABEEL

Karachi

Published in Daily Times, July 12^th 2018.